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The Official TrueCar Blog | New Car Pricing & New Car DealsFri, 27 Mar 2015 19:23:15 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.4.1Electric Cars for Earth Month: Spotlight on Electric Vehicles for 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/27/electric-cars-for-earth-month-spotlight-on-electric-vehicles-for-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=electric-cars-for-earth-month-spotlight-on-electric-vehicles-for-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/27/electric-cars-for-earth-month-spotlight-on-electric-vehicles-for-2015/#commentsFri, 27 Mar 2015 19:23:15 +0000TrueCarhttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32183With the arrival of Earth Month, it's time to tally up the number of electric cars sold since President Obama vowed the United States would “become the first country to have one million electric vehicles on the road by 2015.”

The deadline has arrived, and automakers have sold just about a quarter of that amount since then, increasing sales of electric cars from a little under 20,000 in 2011, to just over 123,000 in 2014, according to InsideEVs.com.

These alternate-powertrain cars help reduce our dependency on petroleum and make an environmental impact through reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Since he made that promise, your choices as an electric car buyer have expanded to more than 20 practical and luxurious options. Read on to learn more about some of the electric cars on sale now.

What are the Different Kinds of Electric Vehicles?

A Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) combines an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and a battery pack. Depending on the hybrid system, electric power can be used for vehicle launch, lower-speed operation, or to boost horsepower when needed, and the internal combustion engine (ICE) takes over for higher-demand operation or when cruising at highway speeds, and can help charge the battery.

Pure Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) don’t require an ounce of gasoline. Instead of an ICE, the BEV features a high-voltage electric motor powered by a battery pack. These battery packs can charge in up to 12 hours when plugged in a 110-volt outlet for Level 1 charging, about six hours from a 240-volt outlet (or Level 2 charger), or even faster with a Level 3 CHAdeMO fast charger. Pure BEVs currently offer operating ranges around a hundred miles per charge, and are favored for their lack of tailpipe emissions, as well as for their ghostly silent operation and consistent acceleration throughout their speed range.

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) combine HEV technology with a high-voltage storage battery similar to that used in a BEV. PHEVs run using the charge of the battery first, and then continue in regular hybrid mode once the battery is depleted, offering a much greater range than a pure BEV. PHEVs are silent, and do not emit greenhouse gasses while operating in electric mode, but do make some operating noises and tailpipe emissions when running on their hybrid powerplants. Their advantage is that they remove the "range anxiety" associated with pure battery electric vehicles.

Both BEV and PHEV propulsion systems incorporate regenerative braking systems to capture kinetic energy from braking to recharge their batteries.

How Do You Charge An Electric Vehicle?

Worried about how to charge an electric vehicle? Plug it in at home or work using either a standard Level 1 120-volt outlet (slower charging times) or into a specialized Level 2 220-volt outlet (for faster charging times). Plan longer trips in advance, and give yourself some time to recharge, because electric cars can take six to 12 hours -- as fast as about an hour per 20 miles of travel depending on the model -- to get to a full charge at standard 120-volt outlets. If you’re out and about, you’ll need to find one of about 9300 public electric-vehicle charging locations located across the United States, 2000 of which are located in California. The number of charging outlets across the United States has expanded to offer more than 23,000 total electric chargers, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

If you're looking for an electric car, you're in luck: new car shoppers can now go to a local Cadillac, Chevrolet, Fiat, Ford, Kia, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, smart, Tesla, or Volkswagen dealer and choose from their selection of electric vehicles (based on dealership inventory). Note: all pure battery electric and plug-in electric hybrids are eligible for up to $7500 in Federal tax rebates; up to $2500 in California tax rebates and access to California carpool lanes; as well as other incentives depending on where you live; Manufacturers Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) are before any destination and delivery charges or tax rebates.

Chevrolet sells a BEV version of its little Spark hatchback promising a total range of 82 miles per charge with full recharging in less than 24 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet and less than seven hours with a Level 2 (240-volt) outlet. The Chevrolet Spark EVelectric-drive motor delivers 140 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque, and stores its electricity in a 19 kWh lithium-ion battery. MSRP: $27,645 for 1LT, or $28,035 for 2LT.

Selling more than 18,800 units in 2014, theChevrolet Volt PHEV four-passenger sedan can run about 40 miles on its electric batteries before switching to its hybrid-electric extended range propulsion system, for a total range of about 350 miles before recharging its batteries or refilling its tank. Chevrolet has created a handy site to help new car buyers determine what incentives are available for the Volt on a state-by-state basis. MSRP: $35,170.

Fiat sells a BEV version of its tiny 500 hatchback boasting an estimated 87 miles driving range per charge with full recharging in less than 24 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet and less than four hours with a Level 2 (240-volt) outlet. The Fiat 500e BEV uses an 83-kW electric-drive motor that delivers 111 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. MSRP: $32,700.

The Ford C-MAX Energi PHEV is a five-passenger electric multi-activity vehicle that targets more than 500 miles of driving range using the battery and engine, more than any other plug-in or extended-range vehicle currently in development. It will recharge its Li-ion battery packs overnight using either 120-volt or 240-volt outlets and promises AT-PZEV emissions status. MSRP: $32,595

Powered by 23kWh Lithium-ion battery pack, the Ford Focus Electric BEV features a liquid cooled and heated battery pack intended to deliver consistent driving ranges over a wider spectrum of temperatures. The Ford Focus Electric also has been certified by the EPA to offer 105 MPGe for a combined driving range of 76 miles on a single charge. A full charge in four hours from a 240-volt charger also can extend range as drivers can more quickly recharge between stops – up to 20 miles per charge hour. MSRP: $29,995.

The Ford Fusion Energi PHEV claims to deliver more than 100 MPGe (a mile-per-gallon equivalency metric for electrified vehicles). Ford says this is 8 MPGe more than the Chevrolet Volt and 13 MPGe more than the projected efficiency of the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid model. MSRP: $35,625 for SE or $37,455 for Titanium trim.

The little Mitsubishi i-MIEV BEV five-door hatchback seats four tall passengers, promises a 75-mile range, and can recharge in seven hours from a 110-volt power supply, four hours from a 240-volt power supply, and as little as 30 minutes from a quick charging station. MSRP: $23,845.

The Nissan Leaf leads the pack, selling a total of 30,200 units in 2014, up from 23,094 the previous year. The Nissan Leaf BEV requires about seven hours to fully recharge on a 240-volt charging station and promises a range of about 62 to 138 miles before recharging, depending on terrain, driving style, and accessory use. MSRP: $29,860 for the entry-level S model or $35,970 for uplevel SL trim.

Porsche offers a plug-in electric version of its luxurious Panamera boasting up to 20 miles -- and 84 miles per hour -- of all-electric performance. The Panamera S E-Hybrid PHEV produces a whopping 416 total system horsepower, a top track speed of 167 mph using the full hybrid powerplant, and promises acceleration to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Electricity is stored in a 9.4 kWh Lithium-ion battery that can reach a full charge in less than three hours from a 240-volt Level 2 charging station. MSRP: $99,000.

Stop by a nearby mall to take a look at the luxurious five-passenger Tesla Model S BEV sedan, offering three battery choices providing from 160 to up to 300 miles from a charge, overnight recharging from any outlet, and a 30-minute quick charge to half-range. Tesla sold about 17,000 Model S sedans in 2014, with an MSRP starting at $69,900, ranging up to $93,400 for Performance models.

The Toyota Prius PHEV promises an all-electric range of up to 13 miles from a lithium-ion battery pack with a recharge time of just three hours from a 120-volt household outlet and a total hybrid range equivalent to the familiar Prius so many already know and love. MSRP: $30,815 for entry level, or $36,730 for the Advanced trim level.

Don’t Overpay for Your Electric Car

To get a fair price on your next new car, be sure to visit TrueCar before you visit the dealership. At TrueCar you can learn complete specifications and trim options, and find comprehensive pricing information on new electric cars, and nearly every other make and model in your area.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/27/electric-cars-for-earth-month-spotlight-on-electric-vehicles-for-2015/feed/0TrueSavings March 18 to 31, 2015 — 10 Best Deals for Marchhttp://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/17/truesavings-march-18-to-31-2015-10-best-deals-for-march/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=truesavings-march-18-to-31-2015-10-best-deals-for-march
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/17/truesavings-march-18-to-31-2015-10-best-deals-for-march/#commentsTue, 17 Mar 2015 22:17:06 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32167You don't have to be Irish to get lucky with your next new car. If you're shopping for a new car, TrueCar has analyzed all the available incentives and has selected these ten vehicles as the very best deals available from the manufacturer's new-car-buying incentives during the remainder of March.

If you’re planning to go car shopping during these last few weeks of March, keep these ten great new car deals in mind as you do your research. If you're able to contribute a 20 percent down payment, our calculation also shows what your monthly payment might be when financed for 60 months at a 3 percent APR. Look closely, because if your monthly payment amount is important, you can find payments here as small as $228 per month on the 2015 Hyundai Elantra or $247 on the 2015 Jeep Compass.

Because these great March deals include a broad variety of body styles, the included chart also lists fuel economy figures to help you compare what each vehicle could cost at the pump. The best numbers in this edition come from the 2015 Toyota Prius with fuel economy as high as 51 MPG in the city and 48 MPG on the highway.

It doesn’t actually matter where you live: these TrueSavings deals are available nationwide and demonstrate potential savings on new cars based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Keep in mind that incentive offers are subject to change by region and should be confirmed with your dealer, as they can affect your final price.

Looking for something small and fuel efficient? Consider the Hyundai Elantra, Chrysler 200, or Toyota Prius.

The 2015 Hyundai Elantra boasts an eye-catching design and promises fuel efficiency of 27 MPG city, 37 MPG highway, and 31.7 combined. Hyundai’s eye-catching sedan offers a potential 16.9 percent discount, which translates to a possible $3,219 savings — bringing the national market average price of Hyundai’s little Elantra in SE trim with automatic transmission down from an MSRP of $19,075 to a very affordable $15,856 — or about $228 per month after a 20 percent down payment, the lowest monthly payment of all these March deals.

The five-passenger 2015 Chrysler 200 midsize sedan boasts a national market average of $21,203 and a monthly payment of about $305. First offered in 2013 as a complete redesign of Chrysler’s Sebring, virtually every system in the Chrysler 200 was new or upgraded with quality materials, an abundance of standard safety features, and a long list of standard content. Now in its last year before a model refresh, Chrysler's front-wheel-drive midsize sedan offers a potential savings of 13.7 percent, or as much as $3,377 off its $24,580 MSRP in Limited trim. Fuel economy is rated at 18 city, 29 highway, and 22.7 combined.

Electricity and gasoline combine in the 2015 Toyota Prius hybrid to deliver the best of both worlds. With a monthly payment of about $322 and a national market average of $22,369; that’s 10.6 percent — or up to $2,656 — less than the $25,025 MSRP of Toyota's Hybrid Prius in "Two" trim. Its hybrid powertrain also boasts the best fuel economy of all the cars in this list, with super efficient fuel economy of 51 MPG city, 48 MPG highway, and 49.3 MPG combined.

Need the do-anything practicality of a utility vehicle? The Mazda CX-9, Jeep Compass, Nissan Pathfinder, or Toyota Venza are convenient alternatives for carrying both people and their stuff.

Recently refreshed, the three-row, seven-passenger 2015 Mazda CX-9 is the largest utility vehicle in Mazda’s lineup, but still boasts Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” performance. Underhood, the CX-9 is driven by a 273-horsepower/3.7-liter V-6 engine promising 17 city/24 highway miles per gallon (front-wheel-drive models) or 16 city/22 highway MPG with 2WD powertrain. With a market average price of $25,044 in Sport trim and an estimated monthly payment of $360, Mazda’s efficient 4x2 large utility vehicle currently offers a competitive potential discount of 18.9 percent or $5,821 off its $30,865 MSRP.

The 2015 Jeep Compass small SUV offers a great potential discount of up to 13.9 percent. That translates into a terrific savings of as much as $2,784, bringing the MSRP of Jeep's 4x2 Compass from $19,990 down to a more-wallet-friendly market average price of $17,206 in Sport trim. Add in fuel economy of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26.4 mpg combined, plus an estimated monthly payment of $247, and the Compass equals one super-affordable crossover.

Now in its fourth generation, the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder sport utility vehicle offers fuel economy of 19 MPG city, 26 MPG highway, and 22.3 combined. With a national market average of $34,432 and a monthly payment of about $495, Nissan’s midsize 4WD Pathfinder offers a potential savings of 10.9 percent — or up to $4,203 — less than the $38,635 MSRP in SL trim. Seating seven with a passenger volume of 158 cubic feet and 18 cubic feet behind its third row, or as much as 79.8 behind just two passengers, the Nissan Pathfinder offers functional flexibility for lots of passengers and cargo.

The five-passenger 2015 Toyota Venza crossover combines a sleek car design with SUV flexibility with fold-flat rear seats, spacious cargo area, elevated driver sightline, up to 3,500-pounds towing capacity, a national market average of $26,678, and a monthly payment of about $383. That’s 10.9 percent — or up to $3,272 — less than the $29,950 MSRP of Toyota's front-wheel-drive CUV in LE trim. Under its hood, the 2015 Venza offers a 181-horsepower/2.7-liter four-cylinder engine teamed with a six-speed transmission promising 20 MPG city/26 highway highway/22.9 MPG combined.

If you need maximum space for passengers or utility for cargo, then take a look at the Ford Taurus, or the Ram 1500 or GMC Sierra pickup trucks.

The 2015 Ford Taurus offers 102 cubic feet of passenger space along with a national market average of $23,801 and a monthly payment of about $342. That’s 14.6 percent — or up to $4,079 — less than the $27,880 MSRP of Ford's large front-wheel-drive sedan in SE trim and front-wheel drive, which also offers fuel economy rated at 22 MPG city, 32 highway, and 26.6 combined.

If you're looking for the practicality of a work truck, the 2015 Ram 1500 Express 4x2 Regular Cab offers a potential discount of up to 14.3 percent and a monthly payment of about $452. That translates into a possible savings of as much as $5,732, bringing the MSRP of Ram’s 1500 work truck with 5-foot 7-inch standard bed from $27,740 down to a market average price of $23,868. Ram seats three in the regular cab and offers plenty of storage, creature comforts, a standard 305-horsepower/3.6-liter V-6 engine, and fuel economy of 17 MPG city/25 MPG hwy/20.6 MPG combined.

The 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 with crew cab and standard bed starts at a Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $44,195 and is reduced to a national market average of $39,212 thanks to a potential savings of 11.3 percent, or $4,983 off the suggested MSRP of this work truck. Fuel economy for the two-wheel-drive pickup is rated at 18 city, 24 highway, and 20.9 combined. Throw in a 20 percent down payment and your monthly payments could be about $564 for 60 months at a 3 percent APR.

*“Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change. This does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees or any other charges or fees allowed by law. **Estimated monthly payments are based on a 3% APR for 60 months with 20% down on the current market average price, and excludes sales tax and other fees and charges that may vary by region or state. Actual APR may be subject to credit approval and other factors. These examples are for information purposes only, and are not an offer to lend. See dealer/lender for details, including actual available offers.

Our last edition of “TrueSavings” focused on top discounts for Minivans. If you had your eye on one of those seven minivans, keep on looking, as some of those deals may still be available in the upcoming weeks at a Certified Dealer near you.

Ready To Go Shopping for a New Car in March?

This edition of "TrueSavings" demonstrates ten of the best deals available in the month of March based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This large assortment of choices may include potential savings from such special offers as manufacturer’s rebates or cash incentives, which helps place them among the greatest opportunities for savings for new car shoppers over the upcoming weeks.

As always, here are some really important things to remember, such as:

• Each edition of “TrueSavings” highlights the top discounts off the MSRP down to a particular trim level, since potential discounts can vary greatly between the trim levels. So, for this week's edition, the CX-9 in Sport trim was the most highly discounted trim of the entire Mazda lineup in relation to its MSRP.

• “Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change, but does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees, or any other charges or fees allowed by law. This is a national average, so you might find different pricing based on sales in your local area at TrueCar. Be sure to visit TrueCar to view local pricing on any car and to be connected with your local Certified Dealer who will provide you additional pricing information for the vehicle you are researching.

• Remember, sales incentives are subject to change based on region and manufacturer, and should be confirmed with your dealer when shopping. Deals are limited to inventory on hand, so your Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including your preferred options and colors, is in stock.

Once you’ve made your choice, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/17/truesavings-march-18-to-31-2015-10-best-deals-for-march/feed/0Top 15 New Car Lease, Cash, and Financing Incentives for March 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/11/top-15-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-march-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-15-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-march-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/11/top-15-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-march-2015/#commentsWed, 11 Mar 2015 20:15:22 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32132If you're shopping for a new car in March, TrueCar can help you save some green, thanks to these enticing lease programs, attractive financing rates, and cash-back incentives worth thousands of dollars off of a wide range of vehicles.

We’ve gathered up a snapshot of five each of the best manufacturer lease, finance, and customer cash deals currently available from auto manufacturers during the month of March in certain regions across the United States.

Each month, TrueCar identifies the very best incentives available on some of the most popular vehicles to help shoppers research their new car purchase. These great offers mean shoppers have many options to choose from, regardless of whether you’re in the mood for something small and sporty, large and luxurious, or something in between.

If you’re not sure whether to buy or lease, consider the following selection of manufacturer lease, finance, and cash-back incentives: perhaps these opportunities for savings will help you decide between a lower monthly lease payment or lower upfront and financing costs to get you into your next new car before April arrives.

If you’re choosing your next new car based on a strategic price point, these incentives can sometimes be the motivating factor in choosing one vehicle over another. And, if you’re financing your purchase through a credit union or another automotive lending source, you may be able to combine these great cash-back offers with promotional incentives being offered by your own automotive lender for additional savings on your new car purchase.

No matter what kind of new car you’re shopping for, or which offer works best for your budget, one of these 15 offers can get you into a great car at a great price. To make your shopping easier, all available incentives are automatically included in pricing displayed when researching the vehicles found at TrueCar.

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Top Lease Deals on New Cars – March 2015:

2015 Acura RDX:$309/month for 36 months
$2,299 down, 10,000 miles/year
Expires: 5/11/15Acura’s 2015 RDX utility vehicle is powered by a 273-horsepower/3.5-liter SOHC V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and paddle shifters to promise fuel economy of 20 MPG city, 28 MPG highway, and 23 combined. The new 2015 Acura RDX carries up to five passengers with 26.1 cubic feet of storage behind second row, or a maximum of 76.9 cubic feet behind the first row. A $309 monthly lease for 36 months just with $2,299 down makes it super easy to get into the 2015 Acura RDX SUV.

2015 Infiniti Q50 3.7 Premium$309/month for 39 months
$3,199 down, 10,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/31/15
Infiniti’s luxurious 2015 Q50 sedan is powered by a 328-horsepower/3.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic to promise fuel economy of 20 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 23 combined. The new 2015 Infiniti Q50 features unmatched materials and meticulous attention to detail, as well as gorgeous signature headlights. A $309 monthly lease for 39 months just with $3,199 down makes it super easy to get into the 2015 Infiniti Q50.

2015 Subaru Impreza$209/month for 36 months
$0 down, 12,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/31/15
Featuring EyeSight Driver Assist technology to help drivers avoid accidents, and Starlink in-vehicle connectivity, the all-wheel-drive 2015 Subaru Impreza wagon boasts a long list of convenient features to help make every day an adventure. Subaru’s popular four-door hatchback is powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder “Boxer” engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission and promises to deliver 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. Starting at $18,195, the Impreza is already quite affordable, but a $209 lease payment for 35 months with no money down makes it a real value.

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Top Finance Deals on New Cars – March 2015:

2015 Ford EscapeAs low as 0.0% financing for up to 60 monthsExpires: 3/31/15
Recently redesigned, the 2015 Ford Escape features a choice of fuel-efficient engines boasting highway fuel economy as high as 33 MPG and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Inside, the Ford Escape provides seating for five or cargo capacity of up to 67.8 cubic feet, plus storage in the wayback that holds another 34.3 cubic feet of stuff. And as useful as all that is, the available hands-free liftgate raises with a kick of your foot to make accessing the rear cargo area that much easier when your hands are full. An APR of 0.0 percent makes it easy to escape in Ford’s popular crossover utility vehicle.

2015 Honda CivicAs low as 0.9% financing for up to 48 months
Expires: 4/13/15
Powered by a 140-horsepower/1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, the 2015 Honda Civic Sedan is big on fuel economy but compact on interior space, boasting fuel economy rated at 28 MPG city / 39 MPG highway / and 33.1 MPG combined, but offering only 94.6 cubic feet of passenger space inside. As for cargo, Honda's popular Civic sedan offers 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space while the coupe is slightly smaller at 11.7 cubic feet of room. Keys to a Honda Civic are easier to catch than Lucky Leprechauns, thanks to a super affordable monthly APR of 0.9 percent for 48 months with $1,999 down.

2015 Nissan AltimaAs low as 0.0% financing for up to 60 months
Expires: 3/31/15
The midsize 2015 Nissan Altima boasts a sporty design with a roomy interior offering space for five and 25.3 cubic feet of cargo in the trunk. Its 182-horsepower 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission to offer fuel economy rated at 27 city and 38 highway miles per gallon. Technology features include blind spot warning and moving object detection systems, as well as subtle innovations such as intelligent headlights and windshield wipers -- all for a suggested MSRP of $22,300. And you just can’t beat an APR as low as 0.0 percent for 60 months.

2015 Toyota TundraAs low as 0.0% financing for up to 48 months
Expires: 3/31/15
Toyota says its 2015 Tundra is “Work ready, family tough,” thanks to an assortment of functional hard-working truck features, as well as comfort and convenience items found in many sedans. Under the hood, the 2015 Toyota Tundra is powered by a 310-hp/4.6-liter V-8 engine mated to a six-speed transmission and can tow up to 10,500 pounds, while also promising up to 15 MPG city and 19 MPG highway. Suggested retail starts at $28,510; the Tundra is a hard-working truck, but 0.0 percent financing for up to 48 months makes it easy on your wallet.

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Top Customer Cash Offers on New Cars – March 2015:

2015 Cadillac SRXUp to $2,000 customer cash
Expires: 3/31/15
Region: East
Cadillac’s compact luxury utility vehicle appeals to SUV drivers who want a smaller vehicle, with a smooth yet powerful ride, and a plethora of luxury and comfort features. The 2015 Cadillac SRX is powered by a 308-horsepower/3.6-liter V-6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission promising fuel economy of 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. Starting at $37,605, the SRX currently boasts up to $2,000 customer cash back.

2015 Chrysler 200Up to $2,000 customer cash
Expires: 3/31/15
Region: West
All-new for 2015, Chrysler says it has designed, engineered and built the new 200 midsize sedan to compete with the very best vehicles in the industry. Under the hood, the 2015 Chrysler 200 is powered by a 184-horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir II four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission to provide 23 city and 36 highway MPG. Already affordable with a base price starting at $21,800, buyers of the five-passenger sedan may also qualify for up to $2,000 in customer cash.

2015 GMC AcadiaUp to $1,500 customer cash
Expires: 3/31/15
Region: Atlantic
The eight passenger 2015 GMC Acadia SUV provides ample interior and cargo space for family-friendly functionality, with premium interior cabin and well-equipped standard features. The 2015 Acadia is offered in both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, can tow up to 5,200 pounds and is powered by a fuel-efficient 3.6-liter, six-cylinder engine that produces 288 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. The Acadia boasts 24.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum of 116.1 cubic feet of cargo space available behind the front row of seats, providing ample room for passengers and their gear. This full-size SUV boasts a starting MSRP of $34,900, and up to $2,000 in customer cash.

2015 Hyundai ElantraUp to $3,250 customer cash
Expires: 3/31/15
Region: Western
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra boasts an eye-catching design and promises fuel efficiency of 28 MPG city, 38 MPG highway, and 32 combined. Under the hood, Hyundai’s sporty little Elantra is powered by a 145-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed Shiftronic transmission and Active ECO system. Suggested retail starts at $17,250 (with manual transmission), but you can get even more bang for your buck with up to $3,250 in customer cash.

This is not the complete list of all available new-car incentives available during the month of March; selected were five each of the best lease, cash, and finance offers available across a variety of manufacturers and vehicle segments.

The deal information presented in this article is provided for illustrative purposes only, and is not an offer to lease or lend. Results may vary depending on your individual circumstances, including credit approval by dealer/manufacturer or your personal lender. Pay attention to the expiration dates, as nearly all of of these offers end on March 31, 2015.

Be sure to check with your local Certified Dealer to verify that the incentive is offered in your region as these offers may vary from region to region. Deals are subject to change, and are limited to inventory on hand. See your dealer/manufacturer for details, including actual offers available in your region. A Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including preferred options and colors, is in stock.

Ready to Go Shopping for a New Car in March?

If you want to save some green on your next car, be sure to do your research at TrueCar first, where you can see your Guaranteed Savings and any eligible incentives and discounts before even visiting a dealership. Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information is not available in all states. See your Certified Dealer for details. Once you’ve selected your desired vehicle, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/11/top-15-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-march-2015/feed/0TrueSavings March 4 – 17, 2015: Top Discounts for Minivanshttp://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/04/truesavings-march-4-17-2015-top-discounts-for-minivans/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=truesavings-march-4-17-2015-top-discounts-for-minivans
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/04/truesavings-march-4-17-2015-top-discounts-for-minivans/#commentsWed, 04 Mar 2015 14:00:42 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32113When it comes to providing flexible space for people and their possessions, nothing beats a minivan. If you're shopping for the ultimate in family transportation, TrueCar has got the info you need to help you find a great buy.

Regardless of whether your preference for minivans has you shopping for something macho (like Dodge's "Man Van" Grand Caravan), something luxurious (like the Nissan Quest Platinum edition) or something slightly smaller (like the six-passenger Mazda5) this week’s deals offer something for every new-car shopper’s needs, with potential savings as high as 8.02 percent. Market average pricing on these practical minivans demonstrates a range of discounts off Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) equaling as much as $2,571 off these functional family haulers.

It doesn’t matter where you live: these TrueSavings deals are available nationwide and demonstrate potential savings on new cars based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Keep in mind that incentive offers are subject to change by region and should be confirmed with your dealer, as they can affect your final price.

Boasting the highest discount in this mass of minivans, the upscale 2015 Chrysler Town & Country offers a variety of flexible cargo and seating systems, as well as potential discount of 8.02 percent off its $32,060 MSRP in Touring trim. With room for seven and plenty of paraphernalia, that potential savings of $2,571 brings the average market price down to about $29,489 — or just about $424 monthly after 20 percent down. Fuel economy is rated at 17 MPG city, 25 highway, and 20.6 combined.

Following close behind is the 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan. Most famous for its "Stow 'n Go" seating, Dodge's macho "Man Van" starts with an MSRP of $28,290, but its national market average is $2,253 lower at $26,037; that’s a potential savings of 7.96% off the suggested MSRP of Dodge's popular minivan in SXT trim, for a monthly payment of about $374. Under its hood, the 2015 Grand Caravan offers a 283-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine teamed with a six-speed transmission promising 17 MPG city/25 highway highway/21.3 MPG combined.

Along with its flexible family and cargo carrying potential, the 2015 Toyota Sienna also features a two-year/25,000-mile complimentary maintenance plan with roadside assistance. With an MSRP of $29,485, the Sienna's potential savings of 7.59 percent translates to $2,237 — bringing the national market average price of Toyota's front-wheel-drive, seven-passenger "Swagger Wagon" down to $27,248 in L trim, or about $392 per month after 20 percent down. Fuel economy is rated at 18 MPG city, 25 highway, and 21.3 combined.

Honda's 2015 Odyssey minivan boasts an excellent reputation for safety, resale, and reliability, as well as a potential discount of 5.73 percent. That translates into a possible savings of up to $2,101, bringing its MSRP of $36,655 down to a market average price of $34,554, or about $497 per month, for Honda's popular people mover in EX-L trim. The 2015 Honda Odyssey is powered by a 248-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a six-speed transmission promising 19 MPG city, 28 highway MPG, 23.2 MPG combined.

The most expensive vehicle on this list of great minivan deals is the 2015 Nissan Quest; among its most convenient features is a tire pressure sensor that honks to let you know when you've filled the tires to proper pressure. With cool features like this, Nissan doesn't have to offer big discounts, so watch for a possible 3.97 percent discount off the $44,065 MSRP, equaling a potential savings of $1,748 and a market average of $42,317, or $608 monthly, for this seven-seat minivan. Fuel economy is rated at 20 MPG city, 27 highway, and 23.3 combined.

For parents who want premium comfort and features, the 2015 Kia Sedona delivers a national market average of $39,774. That’s 2.02 percent — or up to $821 — less than the $40,595 MSRP of Kia's family mover, and a monthly payment of about $572 in its top-level Limited trim. It offers a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and great features including a Smart Power Liftgate, available second-row "First-Class Lounge" seating. Performance-wise, it comes with a 276-horsepower 3.3-liter, V-6 engine mated to a six-speed transmission, and promises an EPA estimated 17 MPG city, 22 hwy, 19.4 MPG combined.

The Mazda5 is the smallest vehicle among this collection of minivans, but it's also the most affordable as well. The 2015 Mazda Mazda5 shows a national market average price of $21,974 and a potential discount of 0.39 percent, or $86 off the $22,060 MSRP of Mazda's sporty six-seat minivan in Sport trim. In addition to its affordable $316 monthly payment, the 2015 Mazda5 is powered by an efficient 157-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed transmission boasting 21 MPG city, 28 highway MPG, 24.3 MPG combined, giving it the best fuel economy of all the minivans on this list.

TrueSavings March 4 - 17: Top Discounts for Minivans

Year Make Model Trim Segment

MSRP /
Market
Avg.*

Est.
Monthly Payment**

$ Savings /
% Savings

City /
Hwy /
Comb MPG

2015 Chrysler Town & Country Touring

$32,060 / $29,489

$424

$2,571 / 8.02%

17 / 25 / 20.6

2015 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT

$28,290 / $26,037

$374

$2,253 / 7.96%

17 / 25 / 20.6

2015 Toyota Sienna L, 7-Passenger, FWD

$29,485 / $27,248

$392

$2,237 / 7.59%

18 / 25 / 21.3

2015 Honda Odyssey EX-L

$36,655 / $34,554

$497

$2,101 / 5.73%

19 / 28 / 23.1

2015 Nissan Quest Platinum

$44,065 / $42,317

$608

$1,748 / 3.97%

20 / 27 / 23.3

2015 Kia Sedona Limited

$40,595 / $39,774

$572

$821 /
2.02%

17 / 22 / 19.4

2015 Mazda Mazda5 Sport

$22,060 / $21,974

$316

$86 /
0.39%

21 / 28 / 24.3

*“Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change. This does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees or any other charges or fees allowed by law. **Estimated monthly payments are based on a 3% APR for 60 months with 20% down on the current market average price, and excludes sales tax and other fees and charges that may vary by region or state. Actual APR may be subject to credit approval and other factors. These examples are for information purposes only, and are not an offer to lend. See dealer/lender for details, including actual available offers.

Our last edition of TrueSavings focused on terrific deals on the 10 best deals available in February. If you had your eye on one of those vehicles, keep on looking, as some of those deals may still be available in the upcoming weeks at a Certified Dealer near you.

Ready To Go Shopping for a Minivan in March?

If you’re planning to go shopping for a minivan, keep these people movers in mind as you do your research. As always, here are some really important things to keep in mind, such as:

• Each edition of “TrueSavings” highlights the top discounts off the MSRP down to a particular trim level, since potential discounts can vary greatly between the trim levels. So, for this week's edition, the Taurus SE was the most highly discounted trim of the entire Ford lineup in relation to its MSRP.

• Remember, sales incentives are subject to change based on region and manufacturer, and should be confirmed with your dealer when shopping. Deals are limited to inventory on hand, so your Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including your preferred options and colors, is in stock.

• “Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change, but does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees, or any other charges or fees allowed by law. This is a national average, so you might find different pricing based on sales in your local area at TrueCar. Be sure to visit TrueCar to view local pricing on any car and to be connected with your local Certified Dealer who will provide you additional pricing information for the vehicle you are researching.

If you're in the market for one of these minivans, why not connect with a Certified Dealer to ensure a fast and convenient car-buying experience?

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/03/04/truesavings-march-4-17-2015-top-discounts-for-minivans/feed/0Spotlight on Technology: Luxury Features for a Comfortable Drivehttp://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/27/spotlight-on-technology-luxury-features-for-a-comfortable-drive/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=spotlight-on-technology-luxury-features-for-a-comfortable-drive
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/27/spotlight-on-technology-luxury-features-for-a-comfortable-drive/#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 20:52:21 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32090 If you’re a person who spends a lot of time in your car, you definitely want to be pampered while you’re in the driver’s seat. Today’s cars do more than just get you from point A to point B: they do it with high-tech features, offering a full host of luxury options to make that trip as comfortable as possible.

So, next time you go car hunting, consider this list of luxury features among the options you might like to have in your next vehicle. If you’re seeking a premium automotive experience, you may want to indulge yourself with a few of these niceties.

Air-Balance Fragrance and Filtration Package

The interior of your Mercedes-Benz C-Class or S-Class can be fragranced individually to suit your tastes with the aid of the luxurious Air-Balance package. Four high-quality fragrances are available, designed to suit the driver's personal preferences and mood. The fragrance system also offers (for $85) an empty glass vial to fill with any alcohol-based perfume of your choosing. The intensity of the fragrance can be adjusted in three stages and passes into the cabin of the car through the air conditioning vents in five-minute intervals. Particularly nice if you drive in smelly rush-hour traffic, the system also enhances the quality of the air inside the cabin by ionizing the oxygen and filtering the outside air.

The Air-Balance Package is exclusively optional on Mercedes-Benz C-Class and S-Class models, costs around $350, and comes with one bottle of fragrance. Each 15-ml bottle lasts about 1500 hours of driving time and can be replaced for about $110.

AirScarf Heating System

If you're a fan of driving topless, then you'll appreciate the “AirScarf” feature available on Mercedes-Benz convertible SL and SLK models. Located in the front-seat headrests, the AirScarf neck-level heating system warms an occupant's head and neck, allowing drivers and passengers to ride comfortably with the top down in cooler-than-normal weather. Combine this with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, and you can stay toasty warm in your convertible, regardless of the season.

Keyless Entry and Remote Start

Nearly all automakers offer smart-key systems that let you open the door and start the engine without removing the key from your pocket. This feature is especially convenient if you're the person whose hands are always full, or whose keys are buried at the bottom of a briefcase, purse, or backpack. But many manufacturers, from mainstream to premium brands, take it even further with remote starters that will allow you to engage the engine by using the key fob before even getting inside, allowing the car to warm up ahead of time (so you never have to sit inside a cold car on a winter day), or cool down (reducing the ouch factor of an oven-like interior during the heat of summer).

By the way, there’s an app for that: Depending on the vehicle, some remote start and lock/unlock systems can also be operated by dedicated smart phone apps, such as the OnStar RemoteLink app that functions with General Motors brands, or the Remote Access app that works with Ford and Lincoln vehicles, Mercedes-Benz mbrace app, or the Hyundai BlueLink app. Automotive smart phone apps are rolling out every day that offer a variety of connectivity and functionality, so check at the dealership to learn how your smart phone can help you connect to your car.

GPS-Linked Temperature Control

This might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but you can get it today in Acura's RDX and MDX models. This high-tech climate control system communicates with a GPS-linked solar sensor that determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger. The dual-zone climate control system then modifies the vehicle's temperature to keep sunnier sides of the passenger compartment as cool as those in the shade. The automatic climate control system is an add-on to Acura models equipped with the Technology Package, and is perfect for sun-belt drivers who spend a lot of time commuting on glaring days.

Hands-Free Cargo Access

Hands-free access makes loading and unloading cargo more convenient for busy people. On the Hyundai Sonata, the hands-free smart trunk opens automatically when it senses the Proximity Key is behind the vehicle within three feet for more than three seconds. On the Ford Escape and Volkswagen Touareg, the available motion-sensing hands-free liftgate gives quick access to the cargo area. Enabled by motion technology used in today’s video game systems, a gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates, unlocks, and raises the liftgate when the driver has the vehicle’s key fob on them. The newest 2015 GMC Yukon Denali also offers a similar kick-activated feature. This allows quick and easy access to the cargo area without needing to set down packages or dig out keys. The same process closes the hatch.

Hands-Free Parking Assist Systems

The first parking assist system was introduced by Lexus in 2006, but has now migrated to many other manufacturers -- such as Acura, BMW, Chrysler and Jeep, Land-Rover, Ford and Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and Infiniti, Volvo, Volkswagen, and most recently even the Chevrolet SS -- to help steer a vehicle into a parallel parking space with little input from the user, aside from shifting gears and operating the gas and brakes. These systems use ultrasonic-based sensors and power-assisted steering to identify a spot big enough for the car to fit into, then position the vehicle for parking, calculate the optimal steering angle, and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot. While early systems could only navigate cars into parallel parking spots, some newer systems, such as the ones on the 2014 Chevrolet SS and Chrysler 200, will now even steer the car into perpendicular (or reverse right-angle) spaces. This is a great feature if you live in congested areas where street parking is at a premium, because it will measure open spaces as you drive along, and let you know when it’s found a spot it can fit the car into. And if that's not high-tech enough, systems that do it without a driver in the car are just around the corner.

Heated, Massaging Seats

Once upon a time, it was luxurious to have heated leather seats in your car. That's simply passé these days, now that many high-end cars can also give you a heated massage as you drive down the road. While once a luxury found only in such imported premium models as those from Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz, these days even Lincoln and the Hyundai Equus offer uber-comfy seats with air bladders that inflate and deflate to provide the kneading feeling you get from an actual massage.

Who needs to go to the spa when both driver and passenger can get a custom massage in the seats of your Lincoln MKZ?

Depending on the number of bladders and the complexity of the system, these systems can offer a variety of massage pressures and stroking or kneading styles all the way from your thighs to your shoulders. Mercedes-Benz offers six different types of massage styles in its S550, including a Shiatsu-type hot stone massage. Some manufacturers even extend this luxury to back-seat passengers as well.

Autos as Rolling WiFi Hotspots

Rear-seat entertainment systems used to be all the rage, but they’re being tossed aside in favor of in-car WiFi connectivity. Launched in 2014 by Audi, Chrysler, and General Motors, these systems will turn your car into a rolling hotspot… as long as you’re willing to pay an extra monthly charge to the data provider for the convenience of that built-in connectivity.

Regardless of whether you’re carpooling with kids or adults, the option of being able to connect as many as eight devices to the internet while you travel can be appealing, especially on long trips, and especially because it allows the holder of each device to choose their individual form of entertainment. Give each user their own headphones, and such access could equal a quiet ride for all occupants. OnStar says its integrated 4G LTE Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot service provides a more powerful connection than the average smartphone or mobile hotspot. Chrysler’s UConnect service promises it can maintain a continuous Web connection even as you travel between cell towers or through tunnels, and boasts access from up to 150 feet from the vehicle. Forget the fun factor: in addition to device connectivity, Audi employs its rolling AT&T WiFi connection for such practical purposes as using Google Earth for 3D map imagery, Google Street View to better assist navigation, and Google Voice commands to find a restaurant on your way home and pre-order your takeout so it’s ready when you get there. More budget-minded WiFi consumers may appreciate Chrysler’s UConnect system, which doesn’t lock you into a monthly contract, but instead offers the choice of daily, weekly, or monthly data subscriptions.

Ready to Go Shopping for a New Car with these Great Luxury Features?

If you’re shopping for cars with these great luxury features, be sure to visit TrueCar to compare features and pricing, and receive eligible incentives and upfront guaranteed savings off MSRP (in most states). You can shop with confidence at a Certified Dealer, enjoy a hassle-free car buying experience, and save.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/27/spotlight-on-technology-luxury-features-for-a-comfortable-drive/feed/0TrueSavings: February 18 to March 3, 2015 — 10 Great New Car Deals for February 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/18/truesavings-february-18-to-march-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-february-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=truesavings-february-18-to-march-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-february-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/18/truesavings-february-18-to-march-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-february-2015/#commentsWed, 18 Feb 2015 13:35:23 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32070Thanks to discounts ranging as high as 14.6 percent or $4,199 off Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP), these ten vehicles are the best of the sweetheart deals you can get on a new car in February.

As the new-car shopper’s best resource for researching new car pricing, TrueCar, has analyzed all the available incentives for February and has selected these ten vehicles as the very best deals available from the manufacturer's new-car-buying incentives during the remainder of February.

If you’re planning to go car shopping during these last few weeks of February, keep these ten great new car deals in mind as you do your research. If you're able to contribute a 20 percent down payment, our calculation also shows what your monthly payment might be when financed for 60 months at a 3 percent APR. Look closely, because if your monthly payment amount is important, you can find payments here as small as $228 per month on the 2015 Hyundai Elantra or $282 on the 2015 Ford Fusion.

Because our great February deals include a broad variety of body styles, the included chart also lists fuel economy figures to help you compare what each vehicle could cost at the pump. The best numbers in this edition come from the 2015 Toyota Prius with fuel economy as high as 51 MPG in the city and 48 MPG on the highway.

Remember, sales incentives are subject to change based on region and manufacturer, and should be confirmed with your dealer when shopping. Deals are limited to inventory on hand, so your Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including your preferred options and colors, is in stock.

The first car on the list of great deals for February is the 2015 Ford Taurus with a national market average of $23,801 and a monthly payment of about $342. That’s 14.6 percent — or up to $4,079 — less than the $27,880 MSRP of Ford's large front-wheel-drive sedan in SE trim and front-wheel drive, which also offers fuel economy rated at 22 MPG city, 32 highway, and 26.6 combined.

The comfortable and stylish 2015 Ford Fusion comes in second place with a Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $22,835, but its national market average is $3,228 lower at $19,607; that’s a potential savings of 14.1 percent off the suggested MSRP of Ford’s front-wheel-drive midsize sedan in S trim. After a 20 percent down payment, monthly payments on the 2015 Ford Fusion can be as low as $282. Fuel economy is rated at 22 MPG city, 31 highway, and 26.2 combined.

In third place, the 2015 Ram 1500 Express 4x2 Regular Cab offers a potential discount of up to 14.0 percent and a monthly payment of about $343. That translates into a possible savings of as much as $3,972, bringing the MSRP of Ram’s Express work truck with 5-foot 7-inch standard bed from $27,740 down to a market average price of $23,868. Ram seats three in the regular cab and offers plenty of storage, creature comforts, a standard 305-horsepower/3.6-liter V-6 engine, and fuel economy of 17 MPG city/25 MPG hwy/20.6 MPG combined.

Approaching the middle of the pack, the 2015 Hyundai Elantra boasts an eye-catching design and promises fuel efficiency of 27 MPG city, 37 MPG highway, and 31.7 combined. Hyundai’s eye-catching sedan offers a potential 12.2 percent discount, which translates to a possible $2,202 savings — bringing the national market average price of Hyundai’s little Elantra in SE trim with manual transmission down from an MSRP of $18,075 to a very affordable $15,873 — or about $228 per month after a 20 percent down payment, nearly the lowest monthly payment of all these February favorites.

The five-passenger 2015 Toyota Venza crossover combines a sleek car design with SUV flexibility with fold-flat rear seats, spacious cargo area, elevated driver sightline, up to 3,500-pounds towing capacity, a national market average of $26,370, and a monthly payment of about $379. That’s 11.5 percent — or up to $3,430 — less than the $29,800 MSRP of Toyota's front-wheel-drive CUV in LE trim. Under its hood, the 2015 Venza offers a 181-horsepower/2.7-liter four-cylinder engine teamed with a six-speed transmission promising 20 MPG city/26 highway highway/22.9 MPG combined.

If you're looking for a small sport utility vehicle, consider the 2015 Jeep Patriot. With an average price of $15,691 in Sport trim, Jeep’s efficient 4x2 SUV currently offers a competitive potential discount of 11.3 percent or $1,999 off the already affordable $17,690 MSRP. Thanks to its economical price, the Jeep Patriot leads the pack of all the vehicles in this edition of TrueSavings with the best monthly payment of $226; it also remains affordable with great fuel economy of 23 city, 30 highway, 26.4 miles per gallon combined. Patriot has 23 cubic feet of room behind the back seat and 53.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded, making it just right for small groups and their cargo.

Now in its fourth generation, the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder sport utility vehicle offers fuel economy of 19 MPG city, 26 MPG highway, and 22.3 combined. With a national market average of $34,687 and a monthly payment of about $499, Nissan’s midsize 4WD Pathfinder offers a potential savings of 10.2 percent — or up to $3,948 — less than the $38,635 MSRP in SV trim. Seating seven with a passenger volume of 158 cubic feet and 18 cubic feet behind its third row, or as much as 79.8 behind just two passengers, the Nissan Pathfinder offers functional flexibility for lots of passengers and cargo.

The 2015 Chrysler 300 sedan boasts premium materials like standard nappa leather seating, and superior technology that includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and handsfree UConnect infotainment connectivity. Underhood, it’s powered by a 292-horspower/3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and boasts 18 MPG city, 27 MPG highway, and 22.0 combined. Chrysler’s large 300C rear-wheel-drive sedan offers a potential 10.1 percent discount, which translates to a possible $4,199 savings — bringing the national market average price of Chrysler’s big, bold 300C sedan from an MSRP of $41,390 down to $37,191 — or about $535 per month after a 20 percent down payment.

Electricity and gasoline combine in the 2015 Toyota Prius hybrid to deliver the best of both worlds. With a monthly payment of about $344 and a national market average of $23,954; that’s 9.9 percent — or up to $2,636 — less than the $26,590 MSRP of Toyota's Hybrid Prius in "Three" trim. Its hybrid powertrain also boasts the best fuel economy of all the cars in this list, with super efficient fuel economy of 51 MPG city, 48 MPG highway, and 49.3 MPG combined.

The TrueCar national market average of the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1500 is $24,725 or about $355 per month after 20 percent down payment. That’s a savings of 9.8 percent off -- or up to $2,675 less than -- the $27,400 MSRP of Chevrolet’s 2WD work truck in 1WT trim when configured with a regular cab and standard box. Fuel economy for Chevy's popular pickup is rated at 18 city, 24 highway, and 20.9 combined, making the cost of fuel light on the wallet as well.

TrueSavings: February 18 to March 3, 2015Top Discounts in February 2015

*“Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change. This does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees or any other charges or fees allowed by law. **Estimated monthly payments are based on a 3% APR for 60 months with 20% down on the current market average price, and excludes sales tax and other fees and charges that may vary by region or state. Actual APR may be subject to credit approval and other factors. These examples are for information purposes only, and are not an offer to lend. See dealer/lender for details, including actual available offers.

Our last edition of “TrueSavings” focused on terrific deals on super fun sports cars available for Valentine's Day shoppers. If you had your eye on one of those six sporty cars, keep on looking, as some of those deals may still be available in the upcoming weeks at a Certified Dealer near you.

Ready To Go Shopping for a New Car in February?

This edition of "TrueSavings" demonstrates ten of the best deals available in the month of February based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This large assortment of choices may include potential savings from such special offers as manufacturer’s rebates or cash incentives, which helps place them among the greatest opportunities for savings for new car shoppers over the upcoming weeks.

As always, here are some really important things to remember, such as:

• Each edition of “TrueSavings” highlights the top discounts off the MSRP down to a particular trim level, since potential discounts can vary greatly between the trim levels. So, for this week's edition, the Taurus SE was the most highly discounted trim of the entire Ford lineup in relation to its MSRP.

• “Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change, but does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees, or any other charges or fees allowed by law. This is a national average, so you might find different pricing based on sales in your local area at TrueCar. Be sure to visit TrueCar to view local pricing on any car and to be connected with your local Certified Dealer who will provide you additional pricing information for the vehicle you are researching.

• It doesn’t actually matter where you live: these TrueSavings deals are available nationwide and demonstrate potential savings on new cars based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Keep in mind that incentive offers are subject to change by region and should be confirmed with your dealer, as they can affect your final price.

Once you’ve made your choice, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/18/truesavings-february-18-to-march-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-february-2015/feed/0Top New Car Lease, Cash, and Financing Incentives for February 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/11/top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-february-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-february-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/11/top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-february-2015/#commentsWed, 11 Feb 2015 20:00:30 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32037If you’re looking for a sweetheart deal on your next new car, we’ve gathered a collection of five each of the best lease, finance, and cash-back incentives currently being offered from auto manufacturers during the month of February.

It's easy to fall in love with a new car thanks to these enticing lease programs, attractive financing rates, and heart-stopping cash-back incentives worth thousands of dollars off of a wide range of vehicles.

Each month, TrueCar identifies the very best incentives available on some of the most popular vehicles to help shoppers research their new car purchase. These great offers mean shoppers have many options to choose from, regardless of whether you’re in the mood for something small and sporty, large and luxurious, or something in between.

If you’re not sure whether to buy or lease, consider the following selection of manufacturer lease, finance, and cash-back incentives: perhaps these opportunities for savings will help you decide between a lower monthly lease payment or lower upfront and financing costs to get you into your next new car before February arrives.

We’ve gathered up a snapshot of some of the best manufacturer lease, finance, and customer cash deals currently available in certain regions across the United States. No matter what kind of new car you’re shopping for, or which offer works best for your budget, one of these 15 offers can get you into a great car at a great price. To make your shopping easier, all available incentives are automatically included in pricing displayed when researching the vehicles found at [TrueCar/PROGRAM]

____________________________________________________
Top Lease Deals on New Cars – February 2015:

2015 BMW X1 xDrive 28i:$299/month for 36 months
$3,844 down, 10,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/2/15
The 2015 BMW X1 xDrive28i is powered by a 240-horsepower/2.0-liter twin-power turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. BMW’s sporty SUV starts with a MSRP of $33,950, but an attractive lease makes it possible to drive away with the all-wheel-drive utility vehicle for $3,844 down and $299 a month for 36 months.

2015 Ford Fusion:$179/month for 24 months
$2,599 down, 21,000 total miles
Expires: 3/31/15
Starting at an MSRP of $22,835, the 2015 Ford Fusionpacks a lot of value into a distinctive sleek silhouette and thoroughly modern appearance. Under its hood, a standard 175-horsepower/2.5-liter Duratec four-cylinder engine is coupled with Ford’s SelectShift automatic six-speed transmission to promise fuel economy of 22 MPG city, and 34 MPG highway. Ford’s $179 lease for 24 months with just $2,599 down makes the attractive Fusion is an appealing choice.

2015 Nissan Murano:$319/month for 36 months
$2,699 down, 12,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/2/15
Starting with an MSRP of $30,445, the 2015 Nissan Murano crossover utility vehicle boasts distinctive styling as well as a standard 260-horsepower/3.5-liter aluminum V-6 engine mated to Nissan’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) that promises both a sporty driving experience as well as fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon city and 23 highway in all-wheel-drive models, or 18 city/24 highway in front-wheel-drive models. Nissan’s five-passenger utility vehicle holds up to 31.8 cubic feet of cargo behind the second row, or as much as 64.5 cubic feet of cargo with the 60/40-split second row folded flat. A $319 lease payment for 36 months with $2,699 make it super easy to drive away with Nissan’s fun and funky CUV.

2015 Ram 1500:$219/month for 36 months
$3,299 down, 10,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/2/15
Underhood, the 2015 Ram 1500 is powered by a 315-horsepower 4.7-liter V-8 promising 14 MPG city and up to 20 MPG highway. In addition to a variety of bed sizes, the Ram 1500 also offers a pair of “store in the floor” bins with removable liners that offer versatile storage, and are large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice. The Ram’s tailgate also features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate. With a base MSRP of $26,605, a $219 monthly lease payment with $3,299 reduces the effort needed to put this work truck into your garage.

2015 Mercedes Benz GLA:$369/month for 36 months
$3,899 down, 30,000 total miles
Expires: 3/2/15The garage-friendly 2015 Mercedes Benz GLA is powered by a 208-horsepower/2.0-liter engine mated to a dual-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission. This luxurious utility vehicle starts with a MSRP of $34,225 but an attractive lease makes it possible to drive away with the compact all-wheel-drive utility vehicle for $3,899 down and $369 a month for 36 months.

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Top Finance Deals on New Cars – February 2015:

2015 Toyota RAV4:0.0% financing for 48 months
Expires: 3/2/15Toyota makes it easy to get into its front-wheel-drive RAV4 crossover utility vehicle thanks to a starting MSRP of $24,565 and 0.0 percent financing for 48 months. The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is powered by a 176-horsepower 2.5-liter engine; it also offers five-passenger capacity, spacious and functional 73.4 cubic feet of storage behind the front seats, and fuel economy rated at 24 city and 31 highway miles per gallon.

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Top Customer Cash Offers on New Cars – February 2015:

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500:Up to $1,750 customer cash
Expires: 3/2/15
Renovated from the ground-up in 2014, the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup truck boasts a refreshed exterior, completely redesigned interior, and improved powertrains that promise more power and increase fuel economy. Offering something for everyone, the Silverado is available two- or four-wheel drive; with regular, double, and crew cab configurations; a selection of 4.3-liter V-6, 5.3-liter V-8, and 6.2-liter V-8 engines; and with a choice of three pick-up box sizes (5.8-, 6.6-, or 8-foot lengths). With a starting MSRP of $27,400, you can take your pick with up to $1,750 cash-back incentive.

2015 Ford Explorer:Up to $1,500 customer cash
Expires: 3/2/15The 2015 Ford Explorer is a full-size, three-row SUV boasting class-leading fuel efficiency of 20 MPG city/28 MPG highway from Ford's 240-horsepower/2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. (The standard 290-horsepower/3.5-liter V-6 engine offers 17 MPG city/25 MPG highway in front-wheel drive, or 17 MPG city/23 MPG highway with all-wheel drive.) Fuel economy is impressive, but its safety is even more so: In back, the world’s first second-row inflatable rear belts are available to protect second-row passengers by spreading impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional seat belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion. Up to $1,500 customer cash back makes the front-wheel-drive Explorer's $31,595 base MSRP even more affordable.

2015 Hyundai Sonata:Up to $1,000 customer cash
Expires: 3/2/15
Now in its seventh generation, the all-new front-wheel-drive 2015 Hyundai Sonata boasts a more refined look, a spacious interior, and high-tech safety and convenience features. Buyers can choose between 185-hp/2.4-liter or 245-hp/2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission; fuel economy is rated as high as 25/37/29 MPG city/highway/combined for the SE model. The nicely equipped 2015 Hyundai Sonata SE, starting at $21,975, promises great value and highly desired features, but is even more affordable during February thanks to a $1,000 customer cash incentive.

2015 Kia Optima:Up to $1,500 customer cash
Expires: 3/2/15
With its fusion of eye-catching styling, grin-inducing performance, and advanced technology, the 2015 Kia Optima has been refreshed with premium amenities and convenience upgrades to create a midsize sedan that offers an abundance of uplevel features and options to enhance comfort and value. Under its hood, the Optima offers a choice of 2.4-liter or a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected four-cylinder engines mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. You can purchase it with an MSRP starting at $22,450, made even more affordable thanks to up to $1,500 in customer cash.

2015 Nissan Altima:Up to $750 customer cash
Expires: 3/2/1The midsize 2015 Nissan Altima boasts a sporty design with a roomy interior offering room for five and 25.3 cubic feet of cargo in the trunk. Its 182-horsepower 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission to offer fuel economy rated at 27 city and 38 highway miles per gallon. Technology features include blind spot warning and moving object detection systems, as well as and subtle innovations such as intelligent headlights and windshield wipers -- all for a suggested MSRP of $22,980. And you just can’t beat $750 in customer cash.

This is not the complete list of all available new-car incentives available during the month of February; selected were five each of the best lease, cash, and finance offers available across a variety of manufacturers and vehicle segments.

The deal information presented in this article is provided for illustrative purposes only, and is not an offer to lease or lend. Results may vary depending on your individual circumstances, including credit approval by dealer/manufacturer or your personal lender. Pay attention to the expiration dates, as most of these offers end within the very first days of March, 2015.

Be sure to check with your local Certified Dealer to verify that the incentive is offered in your region as these offers may vary from region to region. Deals are subject to change, and are limited to inventory on hand. See your dealer/manufacturer for details, including actual offers available in your region. A Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including preferred options and colors, is in stock.

Unsure of Whether to Lease or Buy?

Depending on the offer, vehicle leases can make it simple to shop by price point, by providing an easy and cost-effective way to get into some of the most popular vehicles currently on sale. Some lease deals may offer low monthly payments but with a substantial down payment; other options may make it easy to get into the driver’s seat with no money due at signing but higher monthly payments.

On the other hand, promotional finance deals can take the form of thousands of dollars in cash back (that can help increase your down payment) or super affordable APR financing rates as low as 0.0 percent.

If you’re choosing your next new car based on a strategic price point, these incentives can sometimes be the motivating factor in choosing one vehicle over another. And, if you’re financing your purchase through a credit union or another automotive lending source, you may be able to combine these great cash-back offers with promotional incentives being offered by your own automotive lender for additional savings on your new car purchase.

Ready to Go Shopping for a New Car in February?

Before you start the New Year off with a new car, be sure to do your research at TrueCar/PROGRAM first, where you can see your Guaranteed Savings and any eligible incentives and discounts before even visiting a dealership. Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information is not available in all states. See your Certified Dealer for details. Once you’ve selected your desired vehicle, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/11/top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-february-2015/feed/0TrueSavings: February 4-17, 2015 — Great Savings on Six Sporty Cars for Valentine’s Dayhttp://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/04/truesavings-february-4-17-2015-great-savings-on-six-sporty-cars-for-valentines-day/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=truesavings-february-4-17-2015-great-savings-on-six-sporty-cars-for-valentines-day
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/04/truesavings-february-4-17-2015-great-savings-on-six-sporty-cars-for-valentines-day/#commentsThu, 05 Feb 2015 00:14:41 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32021Want to stop her heart with something super sporty this Valentine's Day? Why give roses when you can really wow her with a new car! TrueCar is here to help you share the love by sharing discount data on a selection of super fun sports cars available for purchase during the next two weeks.

Valentine's Day is one of the major spending holidays for consumers in the U.S., and this year, total spending for the occasion is predicted to reach $18.9 billion, with the average person expected to spend $142.31, according to the National Retail Federation.

In each edition of “TrueSavings” we share a collection of the very best car prices we can find to help shoppers find the best deal on their next new car. Regardless of whether your budget for a new sports car is small or large, these deals offer something for every shopper's needs, from the uber-exotic Aston Martin to the fun and practical Hyundai Veloster, with potential savings ranging from 6.7% to 15.6%. Market average pricing on these Valentine's Day vehicles demonstrates a range of discounts off Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) equaling from $1,688 to as much as a heart-racing $21,811 off this selection of vehicles.

If you're able to contribute a 20 percent down payment, our calculation also shows what your monthly payment might be when financed for 60 months at a 3 percent APR. Pay attention, because you can find payments here as small as $247 per month on the compact 2015 Hyundai Veloster or a whopping $1,696 on the exotic 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage convertible. Our data also includes fuel economy figures to help you compare not just savings at the dealership but what you might expect to pay at the pump, as well.

It doesn’t actually matter where you live: these TrueSavings deals are available nationwide and demonstrate potential savings on new cars based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).

The most affordable choice on this lovable list is the 2015 Hyundai Veloster with a monthly payment of about $247 and a TrueCar national market average of $17,157; that’s 8.9 percent -- or up to $1,688 -- less than the $18,825 MSRP in entry trim, making it a great buy even while ranked in the middle of the potential discounts on this list.

The 2015 Mazda Miata promises a national market average of $29,273 and a monthly payment of about $421 making it a good choice among the more affordable vehicle choices in this edition of TrueSavings. That's a potential savings of 6.7 percent — or up to $2,097 — off than the already affordable $31,370 MSRP for Mazda's hard-top convertible in Grand Touring trim.

The super-sporty 2015 Nissan 370Z roadster boasts 332 horsepower from its 3.7-liter V-6 engine and starts with an MSRP of $48,925, but its average price is $3,290 lower at $45,635 in Touring Sport trim; that’s a potential savings of 6.7% off the suggested MSRP of Nissan's sporty convertible. Put down a 20% deposit, and with a 3 percent APR, your monthly payments could equal about $656 (not including sales tax, fees, or any other fees).

Moving into the pricier side of our list of sports cars for Valentine's Day, the sleek 2015 Jaguar F-Type convertible boasts a 8.0 percent discount, which translates to a potential $5,594 savings — bringing the national market average price of Jaguar's luxurious convertible from an MSRP of $69,925 down to $64,331. Offer a 20 percent down payment, and your payments for this elegant sports car could be around $925 each month.

For the truly generous, the 2015 Nissan GT-R Black Edition bears a potential savings of $10,476 off its $113,105 MSRP. While the GT-R is an especially sporty car that doesn't fit easily into the average person's budget, it's great to see that its potential 9.3 percent discount brings its market average down to $102,629, or $1,475 monthly with a 20 percent down payment.

If the GT-R isn't enough of a statement, then consider giving your valentine the 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage convertible. Underhood, the exotic Aston Martin is powered by a 430-horsepower/4.7-liter V-8 engine that promises acceleration from 0 to a 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. You can get all that performance for an MSRP of $139,790, or a national market average of $117,979. That’s a potential discount of 15.6 percent, or a possible savings of $21,811 off the suggested MSRP or $1696 for 60 months after a 20 percent down payment.

TrueSavings: February 4-17, 2015
Great Savings on Six Sporty Cars for Valentine's Day

*“Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change. This does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees or any other charges or fees allowed by law. **Estimated monthly payments are based on a 3% APR for 60 months with 20% down on the current market average price, and excludes sales tax and other fees and charges that may vary by region or state. Actual APR may be subject to credit approval and other factors. These examples are for information purposes only, and are not an offer to lend. See dealer/lender for details, including actual available offers.

Our last edition of “TrueSavings” focused on ten terrific deals available in January. If you had your eye on one of those cars, SUVs, or trucks, keep on looking, as some of those deals may still be available in the upcoming weeks at a Certified Dealer near you.

Would You Love To Shop For A New Car In February?

This edition of "TrueSavings" demonstrates six deals available on sports cars for Valentine's Day based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This assortment of choices may include potential savings from such special offers as manufacturer’s rebates or cash incentives, which helps place them among the greatest opportunities for savings for new car shoppers over the upcoming weeks.

As always, here are some really important things to remember, such as:

• Remember, sales incentives are subject to change based on region and manufacturer, and should be confirmed with your dealer when shopping. Deals are limited to inventory on hand, so your Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including your preferred options and colors, is in stock
• Each edition of “TrueSavings” highlights the top discounts off the MSRP down to a particular trim level, since potential discounts can vary greatly between the trim levels. For this week's edition, the Aston Martin was the most highly discounted vehicle of the entire list, at 15.6 percent. Keep in mind that incentive offers are subject to change by region and should be confirmed with your dealer, as they can affect your final price.
• “Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change, but does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees, or any other charges or fees allowed by law. This is a national average, so you might find different pricing based on sales in your local area at TrueCar. Be sure to visit TrueCar to view local pricing on any car and to be connected with your local Certified Dealer who will provide you additional pricing information for the vehicle you are researching.

Once you’ve made your choice, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/02/04/truesavings-february-4-17-2015-great-savings-on-six-sporty-cars-for-valentines-day/feed/0TrueSavings: January 21 to February 3, 2015 — 10 Great New Car Deals for January 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/01/21/truesavings-january-21-to-february-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-january-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=truesavings-january-21-to-february-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-january-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/01/21/truesavings-january-21-to-february-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-january-2015/#commentsWed, 21 Jan 2015 15:00:24 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=32009Thanks to discounts ranging as high as 16.1 percent or $4,827 off Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP), these ten deals show the New Year has brought many opportunities for savings on a new car in January.

As the new-car shopper’s best resource for researching new car pricing, TrueCar has analyzed all the available incentives for January and has selected these ten vehicles as the very best deals from the manufacturer's new-year new-car-buying incentives.

If you’re planning to go car shopping during the month of January, keep these ten great new car deals in mind as you do your research. If you're able to contribute a 20 percent down payment, our calculation also shows what your monthly payment might be when financed for 60 months at a 3 percent APR. Look closely, because if your monthly payment amount is important, you can find payments here as small as $266 per month on the subcompact 2015 FIAT 500 or $294 on the midsize 2015 Chevrolet Malibu .

Because our great January deals include a broad variety of body styles, the included chart also lists fuel economy figures to help you compare what each vehicle could cost at the pump. Thanks to a good selection of alternative powertrain “green” vehicles on this week’s list, the best numbers from the 2015 Ford Focus Electric reveal fuel economy as high as 110 MPGe in the city and 51 MPG from the 2015 Toyota Prius.

Remember, sales incentives are subject to change based on region and manufacturer, and should be confirmed with your dealer when shopping. Deals are limited to inventory on hand, so your Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including your preferred options and colors, is in stock.

If a small car with great fuel economy is on your list, then take a look at the electric Ford Focus hatchback, the Toyota Prius Two, or the Fiat 500.

Even though the original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the 2015 Ford Focus Electric hatchback starts at $29,995, its potential savings of 16.1 percent translates to $4,827 — bringing the national market average price of Ford’s small electric hatchback down to an affordable $25,168. Powered exclusively by a lithium-ion battery, the electric 2015 Ford Focus has an EPA-estimated rating of 110 city MPGe. After putting 20 percent down, monthly payments on the practical electric Focus can be as low as $298, among the lowest of the cars on this list. For even more savings, ask your tax advisor if you may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for this vehicle. There may also be state and local tax incentives.

Electricity and gasoline combine in the 2015 Toyota Priushybrid to deliver the best of both worlds. With a monthly payment of about $323 and a national market average of $22,498; that’s 10.1 percent — or up to $2,527 — less than the $25,025 MSRP of Toyota's Hybrid Prius in "Two" trim. Its hybrid powertrain also boasts the best fuel economy of the non-electric cars in this list, with super efficient fuel economy of 51 MPG city, 48 MPG highway, and 49.3 MPG combined.

Even though the subcompact 2015 FIAT 500 hatchback’s original MSRP starts at $20,500, its potential savings of 9.9 percent translates to $2,026 — bringing the national market average price of Fiat’s iconic little carlet down to a super affordable $18,474. For the driving enthusiast who wants a sporty Fiat 500 with more power and performance, the 2015 Fiat 500 Turbo answers the call with a 135-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, dynamic styling, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes, and unique sport-styled interior. After putting 20 percent down, monthly payments on the fun little Fiat can be as low as $266, among the most affordable of the cars on this list.

Looking for a midsize sedan or SUV? Then look no farther than the Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima Hybrid, or Dodge Journey.

The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS starts with an MSRP of $23,290, but its average price is $2,831 lower at $20,459; that’s a potential savings of 12.2 percent off the suggested MSRP of Chevrolet’s five-passenger midsize sedan in LS trim. The 2015 Malibu is powered by a 196-horsepower/2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission; its standard auto start-stop feature helps the Malibu achieve fuel economy figures of 25 MPG city, 36 MPG highway, and 30.1 MPG combined. Put down a 20 percent deposit, and with a 3 percent APR, your monthly payments could equal about $294 (not including sales tax, or any other fees), among the lowest monthly payments of all vehicles in this list.

The 2015 Kia Optima Hybrid boasts an eye-catching design and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a 35kW electric motor mated to a six-speed automatic transmission to promise 199 net horsepower and fuel efficiency of 35 MPG city/39 MPG hwy/37.1 combined. Kia’s midsize hybrid sedan in EX trim offers a potential 10.7 percent discount, which translates to a possible $3,539 savings — bringing the national market average price of Kia’s well-equipped hybrid Optima from an MSRP of $32,950 down to a reasonable $29,411 — or about $423 per month after a 20 percent down payment.

The functional 2015 Dodge Journey seats five (or seven with an optional third-row seat) and boasts a 9.8 percent discount. That translates to a potential $2,573 savings — bringing the national market average price of Dodge’s midsize front-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle from an MSRP of $26,190 down to $23,617. Offer a 20 percent down payment, and your payments could be around $339 each month for the Journey in SXT trim. Fuel economy is rated at 19 city, 26 highway, and 22.3 combined.

The five-passenger 2015 Toyota Venza crossover combines a sleek car design with SUV flexibility with fold-flat rear seats, spacious cargo area, elevated driver sightline, up to 3,500-pounds towing capacity, a national market average of $29,216, and a monthly payment of about $420. That’s 11.0 percent — or up to $3,629 — less than the $32,845 MSRP of Toyota's front-wheel-drive CUV in XLE trim. Under its hood, the 2015 Venza offers a 181-horsepower/2.7-liter four-cylinder engine teamed with a six-speed transmission promising 20 MPG city/26 highway highway/22.9 MPG combined.

The 2015 Chrysler 300 sedan boasts premium materials like standard nappa leather seating, and superior technology that includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen display and handsfree UConnect infotainment connectivity. Underhood, it’s powered by a 292-horspower/3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and boasts 19 MPG city, 31 MPG highway, and 24.1 combined. Chrysler’s large 300C rear-wheel-drive sedan offers a potential 10.2 percent discount, which translates to a possible $3,954 savings — bringing the national market average price of Chrysler’s big, bold 300C sedan from an MSRP of $38,890 down to $34,936 — or about $502 per month after a 20 percent down payment.

The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with regular cab and standard bed starts at a Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $27,400 and is reduced to a national market average of $24,667 thanks to a potential savings of 9.9 percent, or $2,723 off the suggested MSRP of this work truck. Fuel economy for the two-wheel-drive pickup is rated at 18 city, 24 highway, and 20.9 combined. Throw in a 20 percent down payment and your monthly payments could be about $355 for 60 months at a 3 percent APR.

The 2015 Ram 1500 Tradesman 4x2 Regular Cab offers a potential discount of up to 11.2 percent and a monthly payment of about $340. That translates into a possible savings of as much as $2,970, bringing the MSRP of Ram’s work truck with standard bed from $26,605 down to a market average price of $23,635. Ram seats three in the regular cab, offers plenty of storage, creature comforts, a standard 310-horsepower/4.7-liter V-8 engine, and fuel economy of 17 MPG city/25 MPG hwy/20.6 MPG combined.

TrueSavings: January 21 to February 3, 2015
Top Discounts in January 2015

*“Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change. This does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees or any other charges or fees allowed by law. **Estimated monthly payments are based on a 3% APR for 60 months with 20% down on the current market average price, and excludes sales tax and other fees and charges that may vary by region or state. Actual APR may be subject to credit approval and other factors. These examples are for information purposes only, and are not an offer to lend. See dealer/lender for details, including actual available offers.

Our last edition of “TrueSavings” focused on terrific deals on new 2015 vehicles for the New Year. If you had your eye on one of those cars, SUVs, or trucks, keep on looking, as some of those deals may still be available in the upcoming weeks at a Certified Dealer near you.

Ready To Go Shopping for a New Car in January?

This edition of "TrueSavings" demonstrates ten of the best deals available in the month of January based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This large assortment of choices may include potential savings from such special offers as manufacturer’s rebates or cash incentives, which helps place them among the greatest opportunities for savings for new car shoppers over the upcoming weeks.

As always, here are some really important things to remember, such as:

• Each edition of “TrueSavings” highlights the top discounts off the MSRP down to a particular trim level, since potential discounts can vary greatly between the trim levels. So, for this week's edition, the Focus Electric Hatchback was the most highly discounted trim of the entire 2015 Ford lineup in relation to its MSRP.

• “Market Average” is based on the national average of recent vehicle transactions, including destination and delivery charges after incentives that are subject to change, but does not include tax, title, licensing, documentation or processing fees, other state and governmental charges and/or fees, or any other charges or fees allowed by law. This is a national average, so you might find different pricing based on sales in your local area at TrueCar. Be sure to visit TrueCar to view local pricing on any car and to be connected with your local Certified Dealer who will provide you additional pricing information for the vehicle you are researching.

• It doesn’t actually matter where you live: these TrueSavings deals are available nationwide and demonstrate potential savings on new cars based on the possible discount from the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Keep in mind that incentive offers are subject to change by region and should be confirmed with your dealer, as they can affect your final price.

Once you’ve made your choice, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.

]]>http://blog.truecar.com/2015/01/21/truesavings-january-21-to-february-3-2015-10-great-new-car-deals-for-january-2015/feed/0Top New Car Lease, Cash, and Financing Incentives for January 2015http://blog.truecar.com/2015/01/16/top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-january-2015/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-january-2015
http://blog.truecar.com/2015/01/16/top-new-car-lease-cash-and-financing-incentives-for-january-2015/#commentsFri, 16 Jan 2015 22:58:42 +0000Brandy Schaffelshttp://blog.truecar.com/?p=31985If you're starting out the New Year with a new car, automakers are celebrating the arrival of 2015 with a variety of generous incentives.

They’re making your next purchase easy with super-low leases, 0.0 percent financing rates, and giant cash-back incentives worth thousands of dollars off of a wide range of vehicles.

Each month, TrueCar identifies the very best incentives available on some of the most popular vehicles to help shoppers research their new car purchase. These great offers mean shoppers have many options to choose from, regardless of whether you’re shopping for something large and luxurious, small and sporty, or something in between.

If you’re not sure whether to buy or lease, consider the following selection of manufacturer lease, finance, and cash-back incentives: perhaps these opportunities for savings will help you decide between a lower monthly lease payment or lower upfront and financing costs to get you into your next new car before February arrives.

We’ve gathered up a snapshot of some of the best manufacturer lease, finance, and customer cash deals currently available in certain regions across the United States. No matter what kind of new car you’re shopping for, or which offer works best for your budget, one of these 15 offers can get you into a great car at a great price. To make your shopping easier, all available incentives are automatically included in pricing displayed when researching the vehicles found at TrueCar.com

And remember, if you’re financing your purchase through a credit union or other automotive lending source, you may be able to combine these great cash-back offers with promotional incentives being offered by your own automotive lender to create even greater savings on your new car purchase.

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Five Top Lease Deals on New Cars – January 2015:

2015 Acura TLX$299/month for 39 months with $2,599 down
10,000 miles/year
Expires: 3/2/15
The 2015 Acura TLX midsize sedan calls to drivers who appreciate luxury ride quality and athletic styling, but who also value the option to turn it up a notch for a more spirited drive. In addition to its 206-horsepower/2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters, $299 per month for 39 months with $2,599 down make Acura’s luxury performance sedan even more attractive.

2015 Nissan Altima$189/month for 36 months
$1,999 down, 12,000 miles/year
Expires: 2/2/15
The midsize 2015 Nissan Altima boasts a sporty design with a roomy interior offering room for five and 25.3 cubic feet of cargo in the trunk. Its 182-horsepower 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission to offer fuel economy rated at 27 city and 38 highway miles per gallon. Technology features include blind spot warning and moving object detection systems, as well as and subtle innovations such as intelligent headlights and windshield wipers -- all for a suggested MSRP of $22,300. And you just can’t beat a lease payment of $189 for 36 months with $3,875 down.

2015 Volkswagen Tiguan$199/month for 36 months
$2,999 down, 36,000 miles
Expires: 2/2/15Starting at $26,255, the five-passenger 2015 Volkswagen Tiguan boasts an excellent lease offer of $199 per month for 36 months. Tiguan is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder engine promising excellent fuel economy of 21 city, 26 highway mpg. The Tiguan, like every 2015 Volkswagen, includes Volkswagen's Carefree Maintenance Program, which covers all scheduled maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. Add all this together and the Tiguan equals one super-affordable crossover.

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Five Top Finance Deals on New Cars – January 2015:

2014 Chevrolet Silverado 15000.0% financing for 60 months
Expires: 2/2/15Renovated from the ground-up, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup truck gets a refreshed exterior, completely redesigned interior, and improved powertrains that promise more power and increase fuel economy. Offering something for everyone, the Silverado is available two- or four-wheel drive; with regular, double, and crew cab configurations; a selection of 4.3-liter V-6, 5.3-liter V-8, and 6.2-liter V-8 engines; and with a choice of three pick-up box sizes (5.8-, 6.6-, or 8-foot lengths). With a starting MSRP of $26,670, you can take your pick with 0.0 percent financing rate.

2015 Ford Explorer0.0% financing for 60 months
Expires: 2/2/15The 2015 Ford Explorer is a full-size, three-row SUV boasting class-leading fuel efficiency of 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway from Ford's 240-horsepower/2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. (The standard 290-horsepower/3.5-liter V-6 engine offers 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway in front-wheel drive, or 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway with all-wheel drive.) Fuel economy is impressive, but its safety is even more so: In back, the world’s first second-row inflatable rear belts are available to protect second-row passengers by spreading impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional seat belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion. Super-low 0% financing for 60 months makes the Explorer's $30,700 base MSRP (not including delivery) even more affordable.

2015 Mercedes Benz ML3502.99% financing for 24-72 months
Expires: 2/2/15If you’re searching for an uber-luxurious European lease experience, look no further than the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 utility vehicle, which promises a controlled, sedan-like ride without sacrificing agility. Starting at $48,300 (not including destination fees), the 2015 Mercedes-ML350 is powered by a 302-horsepower/3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission that promises both sporty performance and comfort. Who would expect to get into a Mercedes-Benz for financing as low as 2.99 percent for 24 to 72 months?

2014 Nissan Sentra0.0% financing for 72 months
Expires: 2/2/15Even though it’s low-priced, the 2014 Nissan Sentra was built with long journeys in mind, with a quiet cabin and plush interior materials like soft-touch trim and available leather-appointed seats to maximize comfort. Starting at $15,990, the super affordable five-passenger four-door Sentra also boasts 0.0 percent financing. The fun little Sentra is powered by a 130-horsepower/1.8- four-cylinder engine promising excellent fuel economy of 27 city, 36 highway mpg.

2015 Toyota Corolla0.0% financing for 48 months
Expires: 2/2/15Completely redesigned in 2014, the 2015 Toyota Corolla offers an edgy new design complemented by comfortable interior, smart technology, and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a choice of four-speed automatic or CVT transmission boasting fuel economy as high as 30 mpg city, 40 highway, and 34 mpg combined on LE Eco models. You can purchase the already affordable 2015 Toyota Corolla with an MSRP starting at $16,900, and sweeten the deal with 0.0 percent financing.

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Five Top Customer Cash Offers on New Cars – January 2015:

2015 Chevrolet Malibu LT$3,000 customer cash
Expires: 2/2/15
The Malibu is Chevrolet’s first global midsize sedan designed and engineered for customers in 100 markets on six continents. Inside, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LT features such safety features and technologies as 10 standard airbags, ultra-high-strength steel, lane departure warning/forward collision warning, and rearview camera system. And if that’s not enough, Chevrolet is offering a $3,000 cash back incentive to entice new-car buyers to choose the Malibu.

2015 Dodge Journey$2,250 customer cash
Expires: 2/2/15Need flexible room for people and their stuff? The 2015 Dodge Journey boasts 67.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Five-seat models have 39.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, while seven-seat models have 37 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 10.7 cubic feet behind the third row. And if that’s not enough, Dodge is offering a $2,250 cash back incentive to encourage new-car buyers to choose the Journey.

This is not the complete list of all available new-car incentives available during the month of January; selected were five each of the best lease, cash, and finance offers available across a variety of manufacturers and vehicle segments.

The deal information presented in this article is provided for illustrative purposes only, and is not an offer to lease or lend. Results may vary depending on your individual circumstances, including credit approval by dealer/manufacturer or your personal lender. Pay attention to the expiration dates, as most of these offers end within the very first days of February, 2015, though some do last until March.

Be sure to check with your local Certified Dealer to verify that the incentive is offered in your region as these offers may vary from region to region. Deals are subject to change, and are limited to inventory on hand. See your dealer/manufacturer for details, including actual offers available in your region. A Certified Dealer must confirm that actual inventory, including preferred options and colors, is in stock.

Ready to Go Shopping for a New Car in January?

Before you start the New Year off with a new car, be sure to do your research at TrueCar.com first, where you can see your Guaranteed Savings and any eligible incentives and discounts before even visiting a dealership. Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information is not available in all states. See your Certified Dealer for details. Once you’ve selected your desired vehicle, request a Certificate to get your negotiation-free Guaranteed Savings (available in most states) and streamline the buying process to save you both time and money.